Seafarers aboard German-flagged vessels can now access medical guidance from their mobile devices through MediSea, an offline-capable tool designed to provide medical care when no doctor is onboard.
The system offers advice from the Maritime Medical Handbook, the standard reference for medical care aboard German-flagged seagoing vessels, in a format intended for use during medical incidents at sea.
MediSea provides step-by-step information in German and English, with search functionality alongside audio and video guidance. It can be used without an internet connection. The system is supported by the German Federal Ministry of Transport and the Maritime Medical Service.
“A medical emergency does not necessarily happen when someone is standing next to the medical handbook. It can happen on deck, in the engine room or in a cabin in the middle of the night, and the person responding may be working under enormous pressure,” said Dr Jens Tülsner, CEO of Marine Medical Solutions, part of OneCare Group.
“Digital tools should not create the impression that seafarers are expected to become doctors. Their purpose should be to support people who may suddenly find themselves responsible for another person’s health with the clearest possible information until professional medical advice can be accessed.”
MediSea is available free of charge.
